Investing Updates: What to Expect in the Week Ahead (Core PCE, FOMC Minutes, and Earnings from Walmart, Palo Alto Networks, Carvana and Booking)

Source:

https://www.moomoo.com/news/post/65647920/what-to-expect-in-the-week-ahead-core-pce-fomc?level=1&data_ticket=1771205507529085

ChatGPT:

The coming week is a compressed but high-impact stretch for markets, shaped by key U.S. macro data and heavyweight earnings. With U.S. markets closed on Monday for President’s Day, attention intensifies across four trading days, beginning with Wednesday’s FOMC minutes and culminating in Friday’s inflation and growth data.

Investors will scrutinize the FOMC minutes for signals on whether the Federal Reserve is shifting from a “pause” stance to holding rates higher for longer. That debate will be tested by a powerful Friday macro bundle: the delayed Q4 GDP print, Personal Income and Spending, and Core PCE inflation. Together, these releases will drive expectations around growth durability and the timing of eventual rate cuts, influencing yields and risk appetite across asset classes.

Earnings are equally pivotal. Results from Walmart will serve as the primary gauge of consumer resilience, with investors weighing same-store sales, margin mix, and forward guidance. Palo Alto Networks anchors the cybersecurity space, where billings trends will reveal whether enterprise security spending remains firm amid shifting AI priorities. Carvana faces a credibility test as markets assess profitability progress against lingering short-seller concerns, while Booking Holdings is under pressure to explain how it defends demand and loyalty as AI-driven trip planners reshape travel search behavior.

Weekly jobless claims on Thursday offer the fastest read on labor-market momentum, potentially swinging sentiment between growth concerns and sticky inflation fears.

Recent trading has been dominated by rate-cut repricing and “AI anxiety,” with heavy turnover in AI, mega-cap, and crypto-linked stocks. Names like NVIDIA, Microsoft, and Amazon continue to act as both AI barometers and stability anchors as markets head into a catalyst-dense week.

Comments:

Walmart earnings and jobless claims data could be important.

Investing Updates: Is CPF’s new life-cycle investment scheme for everyone?

Source:

https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/opinion-features/cpfs-new-life-cycle-investment-scheme-everyone

ChatGPT:

Singapore will roll out life-cycle investment portfolios for CPF members in 2028, marking a major step by the CPF Board to offer “advice-embedded”, simplified investing options. Announced in Budget 2026, the scheme aims to help members who want higher long-term returns but lack the time, expertise or discipline to manage and rebalance investments themselves.

While CPF members already have over 700 choices under the CPF Investment Scheme (CPFIS), choice overload, costs and behavioural biases have limited participation. Only about 28% of OA members and 22% of SA members invest actively. The new life-cycle scheme seeks to address this by offering low-cost, diversified portfolios that automatically follow a glide-path: higher risk exposure for younger members, gradually shifting to bonds and lower-risk assets as retirement approaches.

However, the scheme is not for everyone. Its success depends critically on members’ ability to stay invested over the long term, even during market downturns. Without discipline, members may panic and exit at the wrong time, undermining returns. Hence, strong advisory support and “hand-holding” during crises will be essential.

The case for investing is clearer for OA savings (2.5% risk-free rate) than for SA savings (4% risk-free), which many experts consider hard to beat. Digital advisers like Endowus and AutoWealth already provide CPF-approved, low-cost portfolios, showing the model is feasible.

Experts caution that the scheme should not replace the CPF’s role as a safe foundation for retirement. As MoneyOwlnotes, it is best suited for members with sufficient balances, higher risk tolerance and long horizons. Used appropriately, life-cycle investing can help combat inflation and longevity risk—but only with patience, realism and guidance.

Comments:

Fees must be lower than Endowus, POEM, AutoWealth, etc for people to shift over.

Let's wait and see.

Investing Updates: CNA Explains: What's driving Singapore's exceptional economic growth, and can it last?

Source:

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/gdp-ai-trade-manufacturing-economy-5919481

ChatGPT:

Singapore’s economy has recorded exceptional growth for two consecutive years, expanding 5.3 per cent in 2024 and 5 per cent in 2025 — the first time since 2010 and 2011 that it has sustained above 5 per cent growth for two straight years. This performance exceeded earlier government forecasts, prompting the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) to upgrade projections twice in 2025. For 2026, growth is now expected at 2 to 4 per cent.

The strong expansion was driven primarily by manufacturing, wholesale trade, and finance and insurance. In particular, surging global demand for artificial intelligence (AI)-related electronics significantly boosted the electronics and machinery segments. Pharmaceuticals also outperformed expectations due to high-value production, while construction remained resilient with strong project pipelines. Economists highlighted broad-based growth supported by robust foreign direct investment, safe-haven capital inflows, and accommodative financial conditions.

Singapore also benefited from relatively lower US tariffs compared to regional peers, as semiconductors and pharmaceuticals were largely exempt. Additionally, global firms front-loaded production and exports ahead of tariff hikes, further lifting activity.

Economists described the growth as unusual for a mature, developed economy, especially since it was not driven by recovery from a crisis. Similar AI-driven gains were seen in Taiwan, Malaysia, Vietnam and Indonesia, reflecting a wider regional electronics boom.

However, sustaining 5 per cent growth may be difficult due to a high base effect, external risks, softer labour market conditions and moderating momentum in late 2025. While analysts believe growth could exceed 3 per cent if Singapore successfully strengthens its position as an AI hub, matching the recent 5 per cent pace is considered unlikely. Nonetheless, officials remain optimistic that AI will remain a key long-term growth pillar.

Comments:

Singapore is conservative? It's in our roots 😋

I'm more concerned about the upcoming and future TFR data. Imo, it has a deep impact on future generations and society norms.

Portfolio Updates

Made some refinements to portfolio as follows:

• Cryptocurrencies target lowered to 10% allocation
• 3067.HK added to portfolio for 5%

Bitcoin volatility is having quite an impact. Quantum computing risk is real, but I think a solution will be figured out eventually.

China tech progress is pretty good imo. I think it's worth to add an ETF that's concentrated on China tech equities.

Continue to DCA according to your plan everyone. Don't let the headlines and fear get into you 😊

Investing Updates: What to Expect in the Week Ahead (Earnings from Robinhood, Coinbase and Shopify; Jobs Data and CPI)

Source:

https://www.moomoo.com/t/news/post/65279866/72zVvUJvaa

ChatGPT:

The coming week is set to be pivotal for markets as a backlog of U.S. economic data—delayed by a recent government shutdown—finally comes out. Investors will closely watch labor market and inflation readings for clues on the Federal Reserve’s next policy move, alongside a heavy slate of corporate earnings and remarks from Fed officials.

The key macro focus begins Wednesday with the release of January nonfarm payrolls, which will provide updates on job creation, unemployment, and wage growth. This is followed on Friday by the January Consumer Price Index (CPI). Headline CPI is expected to hold at 2.6% year-on-year, while core inflation is forecast to ease slightly from 2.7% to 2.5%, potentially reinforcing expectations for future rate cuts.

Earnings season remains active. On Tuesday, Robinhood reports Q4 and full-year 2025 results after delivering strong growth earlier in the year, driven by higher trading volumes, expanding net interest income, and rising user engagement. Revenue is expected to grow over 30% year-on-year in Q4. Wednesday brings Shopify’s results, with solid double-digit EPS growth and nearly 27% revenue growth expected as e-commerce demand remains resilient. On Thursday, Coinbase reports earnings amid expectations of year-on-year declines in revenue and profit, reflecting tougher comparisons despite elevated crypto market activity.

Market volatility remains elevated. Last week saw the Dow Jones Industrial Average surge past 50,000 for the first time, while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq ended slightly lower. Bitcoin fell below US$70,000, and precious metals experienced sharp swings. Among individual stocks, Palantir impressed with accelerating revenue and a 138% jump in total contract value, while AMD and Amazon declined on weaker guidance despite strong headline results.

Overall, the combination of inflation data, jobs numbers, and major earnings updates is likely to drive market direction in the week ahead.

Investing Updates: How strong is the Singdollar? These charts show how it is performing against regional currencies

Source:

https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/how-strong-singdollar-these-charts-show-how-it-performing-against-regional-currencies

ChatGPT:

How Strong Is the Singdollar? A Regional Currency Snapshot

The Singapore dollar (SGD) has continued to stand out as one of Asia’s most stable currencies, even as foreign-exchange markets around it have shifted sharply in early 2026. A key global driver has been the weakening US dollar, which has slid close to 11-year lows against the Singdollar amid “sell America” sentiment, policy uncertainty under President Donald Trump, and speculation over coordinated FX intervention. Against this backdrop, SGD/USD has climbed to levels last seen in 2014, supported by the Monetary Authority of Singapore’s steady policy stance versus a softening US Federal Reserve. Year-to-date, the Singdollar has gained about 1.6% against the greenback.

Regionally, movements have been more mixed. The Malaysian ringgit has emerged as a standout performer, rebounding strongly from its 2024 lows on improving fundamentals, strong investment inflows, and optimism around the Johor–Singapore Special Economic Zone. As a result, the Singdollar has weakened modestly against the ringgit, reducing Singaporeans’ purchasing power across the Causeway.

The Japanese yen remains historically weak despite intermittent intervention rumours, keeping it cheap against the Singdollar. Meanwhile, the Australian dollar has strengthened significantly, buoyed by firm commodity prices, a softer US dollar, and expectations of tighter monetary policy, leading to notable SGD losses against the Aussie.

In North Asia, the South Korean won has recovered from recent lows following policy support and official guidance, though the Singdollar still shows year-to-date gains. Thailand’s baht has surged on gold-related repatriation flows, prompting authorities to introduce measures to curb volatility. The Chinese yuan, while volatile due to renewed US tariff threats, has shown signs of underlying strength on capital inflows and growth optimism.

Overall, the Singdollar remains a regional anchor of stability, with relative moves driven more by shifts in neighbouring currencies than by domestic weakness.

Investing Updates: What to Expect in the Week Ahead (January Jobs Report, Earnings from GOOG, AMZN, PLTR and AMD)

Source:

https://www.moomoo.com/news/post/64893434/what-to-expect-in-the-week-ahead-january-jobs-report?futusource=news_hotnews_list&client_hour_clock=24&main_broker=WwoJMTAwOApdCg==&my_cid=103096561&sg_cid=103096561&skintype=3&us_cid=103096561&level=2&global_content=%7B%22promote_content%22:%22mm:post:64893434%22,%22invite%22:103096561%7D&data_ticket=1769997185662418&utm_medium=futu_niuniu_share&utm_content=web_share&utm_campaign=news&utm_term=64893434

ChatGPT:

What to Expect in the Week Ahead (Jan Jobs Report & Key Earnings)

Markets head into the week with heightened sensitivity to U.S. labour data, Federal Reserve leadership signals, and heavyweight earnings. The January nonfarm payrolls report on Friday will be the key macro test, especially following the nomination of former Fed governor Kevin Warsh as the next Fed chair. Investors will closely watch whether weaker employment data prompts a more cautious tone or reinforces confidence that the labour market remains resilient.

Economic data flow begins Monday with the ISM Manufacturing PMI, expected to show modest improvement in demand but still constrained by softer inventories and uneven employment trends. Tuesday’s JOLTS report may send mixed signals, with online postings improving but surveys pointing to more cautious hiring intentions. On Wednesday, ADP employment and the ISM Services PMI will further shape expectations for labour market momentum, with services activity likely cooling but staying in expansion. Friday’s payrolls report will also include a one-time re-benchmarking of household survey data, which may lower headline employment levels without materially affecting the unemployment rate, forecast at 4.4%.

Earnings take centre stage alongside macro data. Palantir’s results will spotlight the sustainability of its rapid commercial growth amid intensifying AI competition. AMD is expected to benefit from strong AI demand, though near-term guidance may be tempered by seasonality. Alphabet’s earnings will focus on Gemini-driven ad growth, cloud demand, and a sharp rise in capital expenditures tied to AI infrastructure. Amazon’s report will draw attention to advertising and AWS growth, as well as scrutiny over a potential, very large OpenAI investment. Other notable reporters include Qualcomm, Eli Lilly, Novo Nordisk, Uber, and Disney.

Market sentiment remains fragile after recent declines across risk assets. Equities, crypto, and precious metals sold off sharply following Warsh’s nomination, with the S&P 500 retreating after briefly breaking above 7,000 and Bitcoin falling below US$80,000. Investors will look to this week’s data and earnings for clarity on growth, policy direction, and the sustainability of heavy AI spending across corporate America.

Investing Updates: SGX moves to encourage more investors to use broker custody accounts for their holdings

Source:

https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/sgx-moves-encourage-more-investors-use-broker-custody-accounts-their-holdings

ChatGPT:

The Singapore Exchange Regulation (SGX RegCo) has launched a public consultation to encourage wider use of broker custody accounts for SGX-listed securities, aligning Singapore with practices in markets such as Australia, the UK, Hong Kong and the US. The consultation, open from Jan 30 to Mar 27, proposes rule changes to allow omnibus broker custody accounts, require brokers and depository agents to support shareholders in exercising their rights, and strengthen regulatory oversight of depository agents. Retail investors will still be able to keep direct Central Depository (CDP) accounts even if the changes are implemented.

Currently, investors can hold SGX securities either directly with CDP or through broker custody accounts. About two-thirds of retail accounts are still direct CDP accounts, a structure originally designed for safekeeping physical share certificates. In contrast, broker custody accounts—often omnibus accounts pooling multiple clients’ holdings—are already widely used for foreign-listed shares.

SGX RegCo said adopting a common broker custody model for both SGX-listed and overseas securities would allow investors to view and manage all holdings through a single platform. This could enable brokers to offer more value-added services such as fractional trading, portfolio management, robo-advisory solutions and other innovative products.

Beyond retail benefits, the shift could enhance Singapore’s market competitiveness. Internationally active asset managers, who are accustomed to omnibus structures elsewhere, currently need separate systems to handle Singapore’s individually segregated accounts. A broker custody model would make it easier for them to participate more actively in the local market.

Market participants broadly view the proposals as timely, given rising retail participation. However, investor groups stress the need for strong safeguards, including robust asset segregation, cybersecurity and PDPA compliance, to ensure omnibus arrangements are as secure as CDP holdings and that shareholder rights remain fully protected.

Comments:

I think most consumers dig into where the brokerages are from and fear geo-political risks or bankruptcy might affect their holdings.

CDP is deemed "safer" since it's locally managed.

When you are in retirement phase, it kind of makes sense to store in CDP too. Go get free gifts in AGMs since got time? 😁

Investing Updates: What to Expect in the Week Ahead (FOMC Rate Decision, Earnings from TSLA, META, MSFT, and AAPL)

Source:

https://www.moomoo.com/news/post/64513754/what-to-expect-in-the-week-ahead-fomc-rate-decision?futusource=news_hotnews_list&client_hour_clock=24&main_broker=WwoJMTAwOApdCg==&my_cid=103096561&sg_cid=103096561&skintype=3&us_cid=103096561&level=2&global_content=%7B%22promote_content%22:%22mm:post:64513754%22,%22invite%22:103096561%7D&data_ticket=1768783511139881&utm_medium=futu_niuniu_share&utm_content=web_share&utm_campaign=news&utm_term=64513754

ChatGPT:

The coming week shapes up as a critical “policy plus profits” test for markets, with the Federal Reserve’s rate decision and heavyweight tech earnings likely to drive volatility. While no rate change is expected, Wednesday’s FOMC meeting will be closely watched for Chair Jerome Powell’s tone—specifically whether the Fed leans toward “higher for longer” or keeps the door open to future cuts. The balance between inflation progress and signs of growth or labour softening will guide market expectations.

On the earnings front, mega-cap technology takes centre stage. Tesla, Microsoft and Meta report on Wednesday, followed by Apple on Thursday. Together, their guidance on AI capital expenditure, cloud demand, advertising trends and consumer resilience could have index-level implications. Strong confirmation of sustained AI investment and disciplined spending would support risk sentiment, while cautious outlooks could pressure valuations.

Early-week data includes US Durable Goods Orders on Monday, offering insight into business investment and manufacturing momentum, and Conference Board Consumer Confidence on Tuesday, a key indicator linking sentiment to retail demand and services inflation. Boeing’s earnings on Tuesday will also act as a bellwether for industrial recovery and supply-chain normalization.

Wednesday’s earnings spotlight includes Microsoft, where investors will focus on AI monetisation and cloud growth quality; Meta, with attention on ad demand versus AI-driven margin pressure; and Tesla, where guidance on autonomy, Robotaxi ambitions and margin stability may outweigh quarterly delivery details.

On Thursday, Initial Jobless Claims will provide a timely read on labour market conditions, followed by Apple’s earnings, with focus on iPhone demand, Services growth, cost pressures and AI strategy. Friday closes with SoFi’s results, which could influence sentiment across fintech and consumer lending stocks.

Overall, markets will weigh whether resilient earnings and flexible Fed messaging can offset macro uncertainty—or whether caution from either side triggers renewed volatility.

Investing Updates: Bitcoin doesn’t have 20 years because the quantum threat is already here

Source:

https://cointelegraph.com/news/bitcoin-20-quantum-threat

ChatGPT:

The opinion piece argues that Bitcoin does not have decades to prepare for quantum computing threats, contrary to claims by some advocates who suggest a 20–40 year safety window. The author contends that the quantum threat is already material and accelerating, driven by rapid advances in hardware, governance constraints, and market exposure.

Recent developments underscore the urgency. IBM has announced major breakthroughs in quantum chip design and error correction, aiming for quantum advantage as early as 2026 and early fault-tolerant systems by 2029. Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin has similarly warned that elliptic-curve cryptography could be broken sooner than expected, possibly before 2028, and has urged a near-term shift to quantum-resistant cryptography. These views challenge the assumption that Bitcoin can afford to wait.

The risk is not theoretical. Deloitte estimates that around 4 million BTC—roughly 25% of usable supply—reside in addresses with exposed public keys vulnerable to quantum attacks. A sufficiently powerful quantum computer could use Shor’s algorithm to derive private keys, allowing attackers to drain long-dormant wallets instantly. This vulnerability affects most blockchains, including Ethereum, but Bitcoin’s slow upgrade culture amplifies the danger.

The argument that Bitcoin can “upgrade later” is also criticized as unrealistic. Researchers suggest migrating Bitcoin to post-quantum cryptography could require prolonged downtime or reduced network capacity, an unacceptable risk for a trillion-dollar asset. Governance resistance, ideological divisions and the risk of chain splits further complicate any forced transition.

Meanwhile, governments are already acting. The EU has set a coordinated roadmap requiring post-quantum migration to begin by 2026 and largely complete by 2035. A delayed or chaotic crypto transition could trigger severe market disruption, from mass coin movements to mining centralization. The author concludes that proactive preparation is far less costly than waiting for a quantum-driven crisis.

Investing Updates: Singapore stocks track global rally; STI up 1.3% after hitting new high

Source:

https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/singapore-stocks-track-global-rally-sti-1-3-after-hitting-new-high

ChatGPT:

Singapore stocks closed firmly higher on Friday (Jan 23), tracking a broad global rally and pushing the benchmark Straits Times Index (STI) to a fresh all-time high. The STI touched an intraday record of 4,895.15 before ending the session up 1.3 per cent, or 63.13 points, at 4,891.45. The iEdge Singapore Next 50 Index also advanced, rising 0.3 per cent to 1,487.74.

Market breadth was positive, with gainers outnumbering losers by 345 to 213 across the broader market. Trading activity was robust, with around 1.3 billion securities changing hands for a total value of approximately S$2 billion.

The rally was led by Singapore’s banking heavyweights, which reached new highs. UOB emerged as the top performer on the STI, surging 5 per cent, or S$1.88, to close at S$39.50. OCBC also delivered strong gains, climbing 3.4 per cent, or S$0.70, to end at S$21.29. DBS added to the positive momentum, rising nearly 1 per cent to finish at S$58.65. In contrast, Yangzijiang Shipbuilding was the weakest blue-chip stock, slipping 1.2 per cent to close at S$3.34.

Regional equity markets also posted gains, reinforcing the upbeat sentiment. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index rose 0.4 per cent, Japan’s Nikkei 225 added 0.3 per cent, South Korea’s Kospi Composite advanced 0.8 per cent, and Malaysia’s FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI increased 0.2 per cent.

Commenting on market conditions, Stephen Innes, managing partner at SPI Asset Management, noted that investors are increasingly filtering out political noise from Washington. He said markets are warming to an environment of modest synchronised growth, contained inflation and a more accommodative US Federal Reserve, even as concerns around fiscal discipline and central bank independence remain in focus.

Investing Updates: Trust Bank launches retail trading platform for US stocks and ETFs, offering in-app fractional investing

Source:

https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/trust-bank-launches-retail-trading-platform-us-stocks-and-etfs-offering-app-fractional-investing

ChatGPT:

Trust Bank has launched its in-app retail trading platform, TrustInvest, marking its entry into Singapore’s highly competitive retail investment market. Developed in partnership with Saxo Singapore, the platform allows customers to trade more than 7,000 US-listed stocks and exchange-traded funds (ETFs). The service was first announced in October 2025 and began admitting users from a waitlist in November.

Since then, about 10,000 customers have opened trading accounts. According to the bank, adoption has been broad-based rather than concentrated in a specific demographic, with both new and experienced investors using the platform. Notably, 45 per cent of customers who have traded so far have made use of fractional investing.

Fractional trading, which Trust Bank says is a first for a banking app in Singapore, allows investors to buy portions of a single share with a minimum investment of US$10. This lowers the barrier to entry for high-priced US stocks such as Tesla or Meta, which trade at several hundred US dollars per share.

Trust Bank said it will not charge platform, custody or settlement fees. Commission fees for all trades are waived until Jun 30, 2026. After that, trades will be charged a commission of 0.05 per cent, subject to a minimum fee of US$2.99 per trade.

Chief executive officer Dwaipayan Sadhu said the zero-fee approach is intended to help the bank build a more holistic banking relationship, with investing complementing its existing savings and lending products. Trust Bank believes its value proposition lies in combining the regulatory trust and security of a bank with the low fees and user-friendly experience typically associated with fintech platforms.

The platform currently focuses on US markets, reflecting strong local investor interest in US assets. Trust Bank plans to expand its offerings to include Singapore equities in future, although no timeline has been provided.

Investing Updates: About half of Singapore fund managers expect STI to rise 5-10% in 2026, potentially hitting fresh records

Source:

https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/about-half-singapore-fund-managers-expect-sti-rise-5-10-2026-potentially-hitting-fresh-records

ChatGPT:

About half of Singapore-based fund managers remain optimistic on local equities in 2026, with 52 per cent of respondents in an Investment Management Association of Singapore (Imas) survey expecting the Straits Times Index (STI) to rise by 5 to 10 per cent by year-end. Based on the STI’s level of around 4,500 when the survey was conducted, this implies a potential climb to between 4,800 and 5,020, which could see the benchmark reach fresh record highs. Nearly 90 per cent of respondents expect the STI to either strengthen or remain stable in 2026.
The positive outlook is supported by resilient bank earnings, attractive dividend yields and government initiatives aimed at revitalising Singapore’s equity market. The STI had already delivered strong gains of 22.7 per cent in 2025 and touched an all-time high earlier in January 2026.

Singapore’s prospects are part of a broader bullish stance on Asian equities. In the survey, Japan and China were rated the top potential outperformers for 2026, while Singapore ranked joint third with Taiwan. Regionally, 72 per cent of fund managers expect the MSCI Asia ex-Japan Index to rise by 10 to 20 per cent.
The Imas survey, now in its 11th year, gathered views from C-suite professionals across 63 member firms overseeing more than US$35 trillion in global assets. Respondents identified three major forces shaping the industry over the next year: increased adoption of artificial intelligence (AI), the continued rise of alternative investments, and growing regulatory and operational costs.
AI emerged as a newly prominent theme, with more than half of managers already using it in core investment functions such as research and fund commentary. At the same time, regulatory scrutiny and compliance costs are rising, while margin pressure from passive investment strategies remains a key concern. On the macro front, most respondents expect monetary easing in 2026, with many anticipating significant US Federal Reserve rate cuts, even as worries grow over the sustainability of recent market performance and central bank independence.

Investing Updates: Singapore a ‘safe harbour’ amid global volatility with Singdollar set to gain: Julius Baer

Source:

https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/singapore-safe-harbour-amid-global-volatility-singdollar-set-gain-julius-baer

ChatGPT:

Julius Baer’s 2026 market outlook positions Singapore as a “safe harbour” amid heightened global volatility, with expectations that the Singapore dollar and local equities will perform well. The Swiss private bank forecasts the Singdollar to appreciate and projects Singapore corporate earnings growth of about 8 per cent in 2026. Combined with Straits Times Index dividend yields of around 5 per cent, this could translate into total returns of roughly 10 per cent in Singapore dollar terms.

The bank highlighted South-east Asia as an area of opportunity, particularly Vietnam, which is benefiting from the “China plus one” manufacturing strategy and ongoing infrastructure development. Julius Baer said its positive outlook is largely unchanged despite uncertainty stemming from renewed tariff threats by the Trump administration, noting that markets have so far shown limited reaction. While geopolitical developments may increase short-term volatility, they are not expected to derail longer-term market trajectories.

Julius Baer urged investors to move away from a traditional buy-and-hold strategy towards more tactical and diversified approaches. While artificial intelligence remains an important growth driver, global policy divergence is creating broader opportunities across regions and sectors. The bank pointed to defensive sectors such as global healthcare and cyclical stocks in Europe as attractive diversification options. Healthcare, in particular, is seen as undervalued, trading at a significant discount to global equities while delivering stronger-than-expected earnings growth and increased merger and acquisition activity.

On currencies, the report expects the US dollar to weaken due to slower growth, lower interest rates, and persistent trade and debt imbalances. Safe-haven alternatives such as the Swiss franc and Singapore dollar are expected to benefit. Precious metals, supported by central bank buying, remain attractive but volatile, prompting recommendations for tactical hedging and buying on price weakness. Overall, Julius Baer emphasised active rebalancing and global diversification to navigate a more uncertain investment landscape.

Investing Updates: What to Expect in the Week Ahead (PCE, and Earnings from Netflix, Intel)

Source:

https://www.moomoo.com/news/post/64196559/what-to-expect-in-the-week-ahead-pce-and-earnings?futusource=news_hotnews_list&client_hour_clock=24&main_broker=WwoJMTAwOApdCg==&my_cid=103096561&sg_cid=103096561&skintype=3&us_cid=103096561&level=2&global_content=%7B%22promote_content%22:%22mm:post:64196559%22,%22invite%22:103096561%7D&data_ticket=1768783511139881&utm_medium=futu_niuniu_share&utm_content=web_share&utm_campaign=news&utm_term=64196559

ChatGPT:

The week ahead shifts market focus sharply toward US policy developments and key economic data, alongside a busy earnings slate led by Netflix and Intel. With Producer Price Index data missing, Thursday’s Core PCE deflator becomes the most critical macro release, filling a data gap and serving as the Federal Reserve’s preferred inflation gauge. Markets are also closely watching corporate outlooks for reactions to President Trump’s proposed policies, including credit card interest rate caps and potential investment mandates in Venezuela.

US markets are closed on Monday for Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Earnings season effectively begins Tuesday, with Netflix in the spotlight. While Q4 results are expected to be solid, driven by popular content, investor attention is firmly on 2026 guidance. A roughly 13% revenue increase is anticipated, and any shortfall could revive concerns about long-term growth. Housing giant D.R. Horton is expected to report its sixth straight quarter of declining adjusted EPS, reflecting affordability pressures, while United Airlines is projected to see a third consecutive earnings decline due to rising labor costs.

Wednesday brings Johnson & Johnson’s results, with updates expected on medical technology momentum and the impact of government drug pricing agreements. Thursday is the busiest day: Intel may slightly outperform expectations despite an expected sales decline, but must show progress in regaining market share with new processors. GE Aerospace is likely to report slower EPS growth as margins remain pressured by low-profit engine deliveries.

On the macro front, updated Q3 GDP is expected to show strong 4.4% growth, jobless claims should remain modest, and Core PCE inflation is forecast at 2.9%, a key input for rate-cut expectations. Friday features SLB, with attention on its Venezuela exposure, alongside US Services and Manufacturing PMIs.

Market-wise, mega-cap tech weighed on major indices last week, while small caps rallied. Semiconductors stood out, led by strong gains in AMD and Intel, whereas Tesla lagged amid delivery concerns and EV competition.

Comments:

Another week of interesting earnings. 

What will Trump do this week? 😆

Investing Updates: Government close to finalising low-cost retirement investment scheme details: Tan See Leng

Source:

https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/politics/government-close-to-finalising-low-cost-retirement-investment-scheme-details-tan-see-leng

ChatGPT:

The Singapore Government is close to finalising details of the CPF Lifetime Retirement Investment Scheme (LRIS), a low-cost and simple retirement investment option first announced in 2016. Manpower Minister Tan See Leng told Parliament on Jan 14, 2026, that the Ministry of Manpower is in the “final stages” of studying the scheme, with updates to be provided once it is ready.

The LRIS is intended as an alternative to the existing CPF Investment Scheme (CPFIS), targeted at CPF members who wish to invest for retirement but lack the expertise, time, or confidence to actively manage their investments. It aims to balance risk and return while safeguarding retirement adequacy. Dr Tan was responding to queries from MPs who raised concerns that the prolonged delay may deprive members of opportunities to earn higher expected returns through market exposure.

Dr Tan stressed that the Government’s priority remains protecting retirement adequacy, noting that market timing and individual investment horizons matter. Investors who are forced to liquidate investments during downturns near retirement may suffer losses if they lack sufficient time to ride out market volatility. Hence, any LRIS product must be carefully designed.

The scheme is expected to adopt a “glide path” investment strategy, where younger members hold a higher proportion of equities for growth, gradually shifting towards bonds as they approach retirement to reduce risk. The product will likely include diversified global equities and bonds rather than being fully focused on Singapore equities.

Dr Tan also noted that CPF members who want higher returns already have access to low-cost CPFIS funds, which have delivered strong recent performance. Members may alternatively keep savings in CPF accounts to earn risk-free interest. While Dr Tan declined to commit to a specific 2026 launch timeline, he confirmed that the CPF Board is reviewing past recommendations, taking into account how markets have evolved since 2016.

Comments:

Interesting development.

Wonder how it can fit to many DIY investors' portfolio like me.

Investing Updates: What to Expect in the Week Ahead (CPI, Earnings Season Kicks Off)

Source:

https://www.moomoo.com/news/post/63865477/what-to-expect-in-the-week-ahead-cpi-earnings-season?level=1&data_ticket=1766969945699374

ChatGPT:

This week’s markets are poised for volatility as the U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI) report and the start of the fourth-quarter earnings season take center stage. Tuesday’s CPI release is the marquee macro event and will be closely watched for clues on inflation’s direction and its implications for the Federal Reserve’s policy outlook in 2026. A cooler or hotter print than expected could meaningfully shift rate and equity expectations. (XT)

The earnings calendar begins in earnest with major U.S. banks reporting early results. On Tuesday before the bell, JPMorgan Chase and Delta Air Lines are due to report, with analysts anticipating year-over-year revenue and earnings growth for both. (Options Desk) Wednesday brings results from Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Citigroup, all expected to show double-digit EPS growth, offering early insights into financial sector health. (Options Desk) On Thursday, Taiwan Semiconductor (TSM)—a key supplier to Nvidia and Apple—reports before the open, followed by Goldman Sachs and BlackRock, whose performance will help set the tone for broader tech and asset-management sentiment. (Options Desk)

Alongside earnings, other economic data include the Producer Price Index (PPI) and U.S. Retail Sales on Wednesday, and Initial Jobless Claims on Thursday, each adding context to economic momentum and inflation trends. (Options Desk)

Equity markets enter this busy week having rallied recently, with the Nasdaq and S&P 500 up over 1% last week and the Dow rising more than 2%, while active trade includes names like Nvidia, Intel, Apple, Amazon, and Palantir. Momentum in tech and defense software has been a notable driver of recent performance. (scanx.trade)

In summary, inflation data and earnings—particularly from banks and chipmakers—will be pivotal in shaping investor expectations and market direction in the early 2026 trading environment.

Comments:

Start of Earnings Season.

Let's go Bull 🐂

Investing Updates: What to Expect in the Week Ahead(Nonfarm Payrolls, Earnings from APLD)

Source:

https://www.moomoo.com/news/post/63542693/what-to-expect-in-the-week-ahead-nonfarm-payrolls-earnings?futusource=news_hotnews_list&client_hour_clock=24&main_broker=WwoJMTAwOApdCg==&my_cid=103096561&sg_cid=103096561&skintype=3&us_cid=103096561&level=2&global_content=%7B%22promote_content%22:%22mm:post:63542693%22,%22invite%22:103096561%7D&data_ticket=1766969945699374&utm_medium=futu_niuniu_share&utm_content=web_share&utm_campaign=news&utm_term=63542693

ChatGPT:

U.S. markets enter the first full trading week of 2026 facing a heavy slate of economic data and select corporate earnings, with the December nonfarm payrolls report on Friday expected to be the key driver of sentiment. Investors are watching closely for signals on whether the labour market is cooling enough to influence the Federal Reserve’s policy path.

The week begins on Monday with the ISM Manufacturing PMI. While manufacturing activity is still expected to remain in contraction territory below the 50 mark, the December reading may show modest improvement. Mixed regional Federal Reserve surveys suggest uneven demand, but better employment trends and slower supplier delivery times could offer some support.

Tuesday is quiet on the data front, before attention turns to Wednesday’s releases. Applied Digital (APLD) will report second-quarter earnings after the market close. The company recently announced plans to spin out its cloud business and pursue a business combination with EKSO to launch ChronoScale, developments that have put the stock firmly on investors’ radar. On the macro side, the ISM Services PMI is expected to edge lower in December, reflecting softer demand, though employment strength may limit the decline. The November JOLTS report is forecast to show job openings ticking up slightly to around 7.7 million, indicating labour demand remains relatively stable.

Thursday brings initial jobless claims, which are expected to rebound modestly after dipping below 200,000 during the Christmas week due to seasonal distortions.

Friday’s employment report will be the main event. Economists expect nonfarm payrolls to rise by about 57,000 jobs in December, down from November’s 64,000, while the unemployment rate is seen edging down to 4.5%.

Last week, U.S. equities ended lower, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq both falling more than 1 per cent. Tesla slid sharply after weak delivery figures, Sidus Space surged on a major defence contract, and Intel rallied on optimism around new server and processor technologies.

Comments:

Fresh year. Fresh Start.

Fresh Venezuela War? 😅

Staying calm and DCA as usual.

Data Updates: Singapore's economy grows 5.7% in Q4 2025, beating forecasts

Source:

https://www.asiaone.com/singapore/singapores-economy-grows-57-q4-2025-beating-forecasts

ChatGPT:

Singapore’s economy expanded by a robust 5.7 per cent year-on-year in the fourth quarter of 2025, beating market expectations and marking its fastest quarterly growth for the year, according to advance estimates released by the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) on Jan 2. This was also stronger than the 5.0 per cent growth recorded in the same period a year earlier. For the full year, gross domestic product grew by 4.8 per cent, exceeding both the 4.4 per cent expansion in 2024 and the official forecast of “around 4 per cent” that had been upgraded in November.

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong had earlier disclosed the full-year growth figure in his New Year’s Day message, describing the performance as “stronger-than-expected growth”. However, he cautioned that maintaining such momentum would be difficult, citing persistent global challenges including fractured trade relations and geopolitical tensions that are likely to remain long-term features of the global landscape.

Looking ahead, MTI expects Singapore’s economy to grow between one and three per cent in 2026. The ministry warned that slowing growth in major economies could moderate export demand across Southeast Asia, posing headwinds for trade-dependent economies like Singapore.

The manufacturing sector was a key driver of the strong fourth-quarter performance, surging 15 per cent year-on-year, a sharp acceleration from the 4.9 per cent growth recorded in the previous quarter. This was largely driven by significant output expansions in the biomedical manufacturing and electronics clusters. Pharmaceutical production underpinned biomedical growth, while electronics benefited from sustained global demand for AI-related semiconductors, servers and related equipment.

The construction sector also expanded, growing 4.2 per cent year-on-year in the fourth quarter, though this represented a moderation from the 5.1 per cent growth seen previously. Meanwhile, all services-producing sectors recorded growth, with wholesale trade supported by strong sales of electronic components, telecommunications equipment and computer hardware amid the ongoing artificial intelligence boom.

Comments:

Huat Huat Singapore!

Investing Updates: What to Expect in the Week Ahead (FOMC Minutes, New Year's Day and Warren Buffett's Exit)

Source:

https://www.moomoo.com/news/post/63357635/what-to-expect-in-the-week-ahead-fomc-minutes-new?level=1&data_ticket=1766969945699374

ChatGPT:

U.S. markets head into the final days of 2025 on a strong footing, with the S&P 500 on track for an eighth straight monthly gain, its longest streak since 2017–2018. While technology stocks powered much of the multi-year rally, recent performance suggests a rotation toward financials, healthcare, transports and small caps. Trading conditions may be thin as markets close for New Year’s Day and investors digest delayed economic releases following the earlier federal shutdown.

The key macro event this week is the release of the Federal Reserve’s minutes from its December 9–10 meeting. At that meeting, the Fed delivered a third consecutive 25-basis-point rate cut, bringing the policy rate to 3.50%–3.75%. Policymakers modestly upgraded growth forecasts while trimming inflation expectations, reinforcing expectations of a gradual easing cycle. Markets will scrutinise the minutes for clues on the pace of future cuts, especially ahead of President Trump’s nomination of a new Fed chair to replace Jerome Powell.

Economic data highlights include U.S. pending home sales for November, jobless claims, mortgage rate updates, and the final S&P Global Manufacturing PMI. Housing data has been relatively resilient, helped by improving affordability and easing recession fears, while labour market indicators point to a gradual cooling rather than a sharp slowdown. Manufacturing activity, however, has softened, signalling slower momentum heading into 2026.

Beyond macro data, a major corporate milestone looms: Warren Buffett is set to step down as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, with Greg Abel taking over leadership. Meanwhile, attention remains on heavily traded stocks such as Nvidia, Tesla and Apple, as well as Rocket Lab, which has seen sharp post-holiday volatility following recent contract wins and record highs.